Insufficient suspension strut resistance
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Checks
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operation, action
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Check tire pressure.
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Adjust the air pressure in the tires to the value indicated on the tire data plate.
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Check the loading conditions of the vehicle during normal operation.
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Check with the owner of the vehicle if they are familiar with normal loading conditions.
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Check the effectiveness of the shock absorber in compression and rebound.
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Apply firm pressure to the corner of the bumper closest to the shock absorber being tested, then release.
Compare compression and rebound to those found on another similar vehicle with no problems.
Replace shock absorber if required.
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The racks are making noise
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Checks
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operation, action
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Check that the attachment points are well fixed and that they are not damaged.
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Tighten the shock absorber mounting nuts. Replace shock absorber if required.
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Check the effectiveness of the shock absorber in compression and rebound.
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Apply firm pressure to the corner of the bumper closest to the shock absorber being tested, then release.
Compare compression and rebound to those found on another similar vehicle with no problems.
Replace shock absorber if required.
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Leaks
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Checks
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operation, action
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Check for any signs of fluid leakage.
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The shock absorber is correct.
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Check the seal cover with the column fully extended.
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Replace shock absorber.
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Check if there is too much fluid in the shock absorber.
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Replace shock absorber.
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Ball joint inspection
1. Raise the front of the car so that the front suspension hangs out.
2. Grasp the tire from above and below.
3. Move the top of the tire to the inside of the wheel arch, and then move it in and out.
4. See if there is any horizontal movement of the steering knuckle relative to the lever.
5. Ball joints must be replaced in the following cases:
- There is a hinge play.
- The protective cover of the ball is damaged.
- The ball joint pin has separated from the steering knuckle.
- Ball joint pin play in the steering knuckle.
- The ball stud can be rotated in the seat with your fingers.
Ball pin inspection
At each inspection of the ball joint, be sure to check whether the ball pin is firmly seated in the steering knuckle boss. One way to test the ball stud for wear is to shake the wheel while looking at the movement of the end of the stud in the knuckle boss.
Another way to check the ball stud for wear is to check the torque of the locknut. A loose nut may indicate pin deformity or a defective knuckle boss.
Worn or damaged ball joints and steering knuckles must be replaced.
Check for excessive friction
To check for excessive friction in the front suspension, follow the sequence below:
1. With the help of another mechanic, raise the vehicle by the front bumper as high as possible.
2. Release the bumper slowly.
3. Measure the distance from the road surface to the middle of the bumper.
4. Push down on the bumper and then slowly release.
5. Measure the distance from the road surface to the middle of the bumper.
6. The difference between the results of the two specified measurements must be less than 13 mm (0.5 inch). If the difference is greater than this limit, check the levers, struts and ball joints for damage or wear.